Shoot to Kill: New South Wales police issue new directive when dealing with terror suspects

Police in New South Wales are being trained to shoot terrorists on sight, with the head of the force's counter-terror unit, calling events in France a "game-changer".

It's a clear shift in strategy from the police force which previously employed a “contain and negotiate” approach to terrorism.

NSW police confirmed that officers have been trained by the FBI to "shoot to kill" during active terrorist situations.

“I think our recent experience in France, not only over the weekend but going back to the Charlie Hebdo experience, has been a game changer - Not only here, but internationally,” Assistant Commissioner Mark Murdoch said.

Police said the move to shoot on sight is necessary to combat a new breed of enemy, who may perceive themselves as martyrs.

“You’re dealing with someone who is there with a preconceived aim of dying and is prepared to kill and wants to kill as many people as they can,” Deputy Commissioner Nick Kaldas said.

The announcement came as ISIL released a new video warning of more attacks on all nations that are involved in military action in Syria, including Australia.